Car and Motoring News - New Car Nethttps://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/Wed, 27 Feb 2019 15:09:16 +0000en-GBSite-Server v6.0.0-17299-17299 (http://www.squarespace.com)VW launches entry-level JETTA brand for ChinaSUVSaloonIndustryConsumerNews EditorWed, 27 Feb 2019 13:46:35 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/vw-launches-entry-level-jetta-brand-for-china55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5c76870fe2c483e53c094135Volkswagen’s new JETTA brand is aimed at young Chinese customers in cities
where car ownership is still relatively low, with sales set to start in the
third quarter of this year.

Volkswagen’s new JETTA brand is aimed at young Chinese customers in cities where car ownership is still relatively low, with sales set to start in the third quarter of this year.

The model range – which will feature a saloon and two SUVs – is to be produced by FAW-Volkswagen in Chengdu and will in particular, be targeting first-time car buyers in the entry-level segment.

In many cities with millions of people outside the metropolitan regions such as Beijing or Shanghai, vehicle ownership levels are as low as 1 car per 10 inhabitants and yet, VW has identified members of a growing middle class who are striving for individual mobility through the purchase of their first car.

VW says The JETTA brand is based on the key elements of the Volkswagen DNA: quality, safety, value and a clear design language, thus enabling the Volkswagen umbrella brand to position itself more clearly as an upmarket option.

Jürgen Stackmann, Member of the Volkswagen brand Board of Management responsible for Sales, says: “With JETTA, we are closing the gap between the established VW lead brand in the top volume segment and entry-level mobility, which accounts for about one third of the Chinese market and is served mainly by local brands. This way, we will significantly increase our market coverage.

In China, the Jetta plays an extremely valuable role for us as a Volkswagen model. It has brought mobility for the masses, just like the Beetle once did in Europe. Developed by Volkswagen and built in China, the Jetta China has placed China on four wheels. To this day, it is one of Volkswagen’s most popular models in China – a real icon. This is why we are transforming a model into a brand for the first time in the history of Volkswagen and establishing a separate model and brand family.”

JETTA will establish its own network of dealerships and will approach customers directly with sales formats including – digital showrooms, shopping malls and mobile sales trucks. By year end, the target is for about 200 dealers to offer the new brand.

In China, VW’s largest single market, the brand sold 3.11 million vehicles last year (down 2.1 percent on the previous year) including the 30 millionth Volkswagen delivered to a Chinese customer.

There are currently no plans to sell the JETTA range in other markets.

]]>Hyundai's new Santa Fe gets 'world-first' fingerprint technology 4x4NewsTechnologyQuirkySafetyNews EditorThu, 03 Jan 2019 13:59:04 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/hyundais-new-santa-fe-gets-world-first-fingerprint-recognition-technology55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5c2e0d5621c67c9c70e54918Hyundai claims the addition of smart fingerprint recognition technology to
its forthcoming Santa Fe SUV is a world first – allowing drivers to not
only unlock doors but also to start the vehicle.

Hyundai claims the addition of smart fingerprint recognition technology to its forthcoming Santa Fe SUV is a world first – allowing drivers to not only unlock doors but also to start the vehicle.

To unlock the car, the driver simply places a finger on the sensor located on the door handle. The encrypted fingerprint information is then identified and delivered to the controller within the vehicle. The driver can also start the car by touching the ignition that is also equipped with a fingerprint scanning sensor.

Albert Biermann, President and Head of Research & Development Division of the Hyundai Motor Company, said, “In the future, Hyundai Motor plans to further expand the application of the technology to allow the adjustment of temperature, steering wheel position, and many other features which will be tailored to…ultimately offer a quality driving experience to each and every Hyundai customer.”

Hyundai says that the use of capacitance recognition, which detects differentials in the electricity level in various parts of the fingertip, efficiently prevents forgeries and faked fingerprints to such an extent that, the company claims the technology’s chance of mistaking another person’s fingerprint as the driver’s is only 1 in 50,000 – making it five times more effective than conventional vehicle keys (including smart keys).

In addition, through real-time learning of fingerprints supported by a ‘Dynamic Update’ system, the fingerprint technology can continually improve its success rate.

Hyundai plans to implement the technology initially in its Santa Fe SUV that is to be released in select markets during the first quarter of 2019, before gradually rolling it out to other markets across the globe.

]]>Citroën's new specs combat travel sicknessNewsTechnologyConsumerNews EditorWed, 05 Dec 2018 14:09:48 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/citrons-new-seetron-specs-combat-travel-sickness55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5c07ce2603ce6473e5b80f93With over 30 million sufferers of chronic travel sickness in Europe alone,
Citroën claims its brand new SEETROËN glasses are the first spectacles on
the market to eliminate the condition.

With over 30 million sufferers of chronic travel sickness in Europe alone, Citroën claims its brand new SEETROËN glasses are the first to eliminate the condition.

The SEETROËN glasses contain a coloured liquid that recreates the horizon line to resolve conflict between the senses – providing a solution for the ailment (also known as Kinetosis) that affects so many people, with as many as one in three experiencing travel sickness symptoms at least once in their life, says Citroën.

Initially developed for sailors, Citroën has adapted the technology so that it can be used on any means of transport. SEETROËN glasses were developed by Boarding Ring, a start-up company based in Var in the south of France. The Boarding Ring technology is a patented and tested paramedical solution that has an effectiveness rating of 95%.

The rings that surround the eyes both along the frontal axis (right / left) and sagittal axis (front / back), feature a coloured moving liquid which simulates the horizon and resolves the conflict between the senses that causes the sickness.

The white soft-touch plastic glasses were designed by 5.5, a collective design studio based in Paris, to reflect Citroën’s fresh, simple and ergonomic style.

How do the glasses work?

As soon as initial symptoms of motion sickness are experienced, the glasses should be worn.

After 10 to 12 minutes, the glasses will allow the mind to resynchronise with the movement perceived by the inner ear while the eyes are focused on an immobile object such as a smartphone or a book.

The glasses can then be removed for the remainder of the journey.

The glasses can only be used by adults and children aged ten or over, as this is when the inner ear has finished growing. They have no lenses so they can be shared with travelling companions and may also be worn over prescription glasses.

]]>Nissan and Italdesign to debut GT-R50 prototype at GoodwoodCoupeGrand TourerNewsSports CarSupercarsConcept CarNews EditorTue, 10 Jul 2018 00:56:31 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/nissan-and-italdesign-to-debut-gt-r50-prototype-at-goodwood55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5b366e2daa4a99cf358ce883Nissan and Italdesign have developed a new vehicle in their first-ever
collaboration - the Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign - with a plan in place to
produce an exclusive run of just 50 examples.

Nissan and Italdesign have developed a new vehicle in their first-ever collaboration - the Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign - with a plan in place to produce an exclusive run of just 50 examples.

Based on a production GT-R NISMO model, the car commemorates the 50th anniversaries of both the GT-R and Italdesign and is set to make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Italdesign developed, engineered and built the car while the exterior and interior designs were created by the teams at Nissan Design Europe in London and Nissan Design America.

Up front, a distinct golden inner element stretches across almost the full width of the vehicle. The bonnet has a more pronounced power bulge, and the thin LED headlights stretch from the wheel arch to the lip above the outer cooling intakes.

Riding on 21-inch wheels, the side profile is characterised by a lower (by 54mm) roofline which features a lower centre section with slightly raised outer portions for a more muscular look while the tradwemark GT-R “samurai blade” cooling outlets behind the front wheels are more prominent with a gold inlay extending from the bottom of the doors to the shoulder line.

The GT-R’s twin round taillights have been reworked as a separate “floating” feature with thin light rings and hollow centres while a large, adjustable rear wing, mounted with two uprights, completes the overall look of the prototype which is finished in a Liquid Kinetic Grey paint with gold anniversary accents.

Inside, two different carbon fibre finishes are used across the centre console, instrument panel and door linings, along with black Alcantara and fine black Italian leather on the seats. Gold accents echo the exterior treatment across the instrument panel, doors and the futuristic race car-inspired switchgear. The bespoke steering wheel’s central hub and spokes are made of carbon fibre, while the rim features a flat bottom and matching Alcantara trim.

Underneath the new shape, the GT-R50 by Italdesign means business. Drawing on Nissan’s GT3 racing experience, the NISMO organisation enhanced the hand-built 3.8-litre V6 VR38DETT engine to produce an estimated 720ps and 780 Nm of torque.

Revised suspension has been developed, featuring the BILSTEIN DampTronic® I continuously adjustable damping system. For braking, the Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes feature bright red calipers, while Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, 255/35 R21 at the front and 285/30 R21 at the rear, ensure a level of grip to match the vehicle's supercar levels of performance.

“Although this is not the next-generation GT-R, it is an exciting celebration of two anniversaries in a provocative and creative way – wrapping one of Nissan’s best engineering platforms and Japanese design with Italian coachbuilding,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s senior vice president for global design.

Pending the GT-R50 by Italdesign's reception at Goodwood and other global appearances in the coming months, a customer version inspired by the prototype may be created. No more than 50 units would be produced by Italdesign – with each car tailored for each customer – with a price estimated to start at about €900,000.

In an effort to tackle the 'last mile' city commute problem, Peugeot has launched an integrated car and bicycle mobility solution with its 5008 SUV and eF01 Electric Bike.

Now on sale in the UK, Peugeot's first electrically assisted folding bike fits into the boot of the 5008, with a mobile charging dock, giving commuters an on-board solution to conquer the final part of their journey.

In the UK, 36% of UK motorists commute to work*, but parking challenges mean that many still have to find another mode of transport to complete the ‘last mile’ to their workplace. The issue is an even bigger problem in London, with 46% of the capital’s drivers concerned about parking**.

The 7-seater Peugeot 5008 SUV's two removable, individual, folding seats in the third row allow for greater flexibility, enabling a load space of 952 litres – more than enough to accommodate the aluminium-framed eF01 electric bike. Weighing in at 18.6kg, the eF01 is fitted with a battery and a motor with enough charge for up to 18-25 miles in range. It can reach a top speed of 12.5mph.

BMX star, Kriss Kyle and 2016 Ladies FIA European Rally Champion, Catie Munnings, took to the streets of London to showcase this complete, all-in-one transport solution for the city commute.

Check out their exploits in the video below:

Gilles Vidal, Director of Peugeot Design, said: “Peugeot is the only brand that offers two-wheel, three-wheel and four-wheel mobility solutions which are manually powered, electrically assisted, hybrid, fully electric or equipped with an internal combustion engine. Thanks to this enormous flexibility in our range we can offer a mobility solution for every requirement. Together, the 5008 SUV and eF01 electric bike combine two modes of transport to create a complete door-to-door solution, no matter what your destination might be.”

Kriss Kyle, BMX champion, said: “The eF01 is a fantastic bike to ride – it’s great fun and practical. I was delighted to be a part of this project and I think it’s brilliant that Peugeot has created a solution for the last mile, which means people have the option to drive their car and cycle their bike.”

Peugeot 5008 SUV

Read the First Drive report...

The eF01 electric bike can be charged on a mobile docking station in 60 minutes and can be folded and unfolded in less than 10 seconds.

]]>Rolls-Royce kicks off 'Cars and Cognac' meet-upEventsLuxuryNewsNews EditorWed, 13 Jun 2018 08:47:38 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/rolls-royce-kicks-off-cars-and-cognac-meet-up55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5b2000232b6a28b8cc147d7fForget Cars and Coffee, Rolls-Royce has hosted an exclusive group of
individuals for the world’s first ‘Cars and Cognac’ event.

Forget Cars and Coffee, Rolls-Royce has hosted an exclusive group of individuals for the world’s first ‘Cars and Cognac’ event.

Invited guests celebrated their collective passion for the marque by reinventing the Californian ‘cars and coffee’ movement (where car owners meet in the morning over cappuccinos and espressos) – by gathering at the Soho Farmhouse private members’ club in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Guests enjoyed an evening of fine-dining, followed by a cognac tasting in a private and elegant farmhouse barn. Dining tables were flanked by a Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge adorned with the new Aero Cowling and a Rolls-Royce Dawn from the Adamas Collection. At the head of the table was the flagship Phantom, equipped with a bespoke Picnic Hamper from which a Cognac sommelier advised tasting practices and notes. Guests either stayed at the Soho Farmhouse or were taken home by – you've guessed it – a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce!

Rolls-Royce news.

Click here for more Rolls-Royce stories...

Julian Jenkins, Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “The ‘cars and cognac’ meet demonstrated the wonderful spirit of our customers as well as their deep passion for the brand. This evening was reflective of the rich dialogue between Rolls-Royce and its patrons; a truly unique and extremely rare relationship, one which we are privileged to nurture."

Call for Learners to take Motorway Driving TestConsumerNewsYoung DriversNews EditorMon, 04 Jun 2018 12:53:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/call-for-learners-to-take-motorway-driving-test55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5b15cf4b03ce641059059ffdStudent drivers are taking to the motorways in England, Scotland and Wales
but 6 out of 10 motorists believe motorway driving should be part of the
driving test.

Student drivers are taking to the motorways in England, Scotland and Wales but 6 out of 10 motorists believe motorway driving should be part of the driving test.

The figures come from a survey conducted by Citroën and IAM RoadSmart revealing that 61% of the 1,032 IAM RoadSmart members surveyed believe students should be tested on motorways before being handed their licence.

From Monday 4 June 2018, learner drivers can take lessons on Britain’s motorways for the very first time. Cars must be fitted with dual controls and the student driver must bea companied by an approved driving instructor.

This latest change to the motorway driving law follows updates made to the driving test in December 2017, designed to make it more relevant in the real world, with independent driving elements and new manoeuvres. Together the new rules are intended to encourage safer driving for new motorists.

Currently, learner drivers can pass the driving test without ever having driven on a motorway but the new rules mean students now have the chance to develop vital driving skills such as how to join flowing traffic from a slip road, leave the motorway, overtake and use the lanes correctly.

Nevertheless, these new motorway driving lessons are voluntary and it will be up to driving instructors to decide when and if their student drivers experience driving on a motorway.

Souad Wrixen, Citroën UK’s Marketing Director, commented; “Citroën is a brand that understands the importance of educating new drivers, and ensuring they develop the essential skills needed to get behind the wheel of a car.”

The survey was conducted by IAM RoadSmart between 22 September and 9 October 2017.

]]>Volvo first in the UK to offer test drives with AmazonConsumerNewsQuirkyTechnologyNews EditorWed, 23 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/volvo-offers-test-drives-with-amazon55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5b0458ea1ae6cf4792203e3bCar buyers in the UK can now book test drives through Amazon for the first
time, thanks to a collaboration with Volvo.

Car buyers in the UK can now book test drives through Amazon for the first time, thanks to a collaboration with Volvo.

The ‘Prime Now test drive’ initiative – which runs for a limited time – allows customers to book a time that works for them, with the car delivered to their home or workplace by a trained expert.

The offer applies to the Volvo V40 hatchback, and is available to customers living in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh – on select weekends in June and July.

“We’re proud to team up with Amazon to deliver this unique initiative, the first of its kind in the UK and the latest in a range of offerings from Volvo designed to take the hassle out of running a car.”

The whole sign-up process takes just a few minutes. Using their mobile device or desktop, Amazon customers simply enter their postcode on the dedicated ‘Amazon Prime Now Test Drive’ webpage at www.amazon.co.uk/volvo, select their location and choose an available time slot. A fully trained operative will then bring the car straight to their door.

Accompanied by the expert, who can explain all of the car’s functions, the customer can then put the V40 - one of Volvo's most popular models in the UK - through its paces on roads familiar to them. Should the customer be interested in a purchase following the test drive, they will be directed to their local Volvo retailer.

Prime Now test drive slots last for 45 minutes, and will be available for a limited time only on a first come first served basis over the following weekends: 9-10 June (London), 16-17 June (Birmingham), 23-24 June (Manchester) and 30 June-1 July (Edinburgh).

Prime Now, a benefit of Amazon Prime, allows members to choose from more than 15,000 items for fast, same-day delivery via the Prime Now app or www.primenow.co.uk.

The service is available to more than 30% of the UK population in selected postcodes in London, Birmingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Liverpool, South Yorkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, West Yorkshire and Glasgow.

]]>Fiat launches special series 500 Collezione in LondonCity CarConsumerConvertibleNews EditorThu, 17 May 2018 06:58:52 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/fiat-launches-special-series-500-collezione-in-london55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5afca0b3f950b725de8e1c62Following its debut in Milan, Fiat's new 500 Collezione has arrived in
London - the second stop on its launch tour taking in some of the most
important fashion, style and art capitals of Europe.

Following its debut in Milan, Fiat's new 500 Collezione has arrived in London - the second stop on its launch tour taking in some of the most important fashion, style and art capitals of Europe.

The UK is the second biggest market in Europe for the Fiat 500 . Indeed, there are more on the streets of London than in any other city outside of Italy.

The car, presented in open top 500C form - but also available as a regular hatchback - was finished in a two-colour "Primavera" livery, was displayed at the Ice Tank Studio, on a quiet street in Covent Garden, where guests were invited to take part in their own exclusive fashion shoot with the Collezione (Italian for Collection).

30 special edition Fiat and Abarth models have been launched over the past 11 years and the new Collezione special series follows in the footsteps of the limited edition 500-60th and the Anniversario models released last year to celebrate the 500's sixtieth anniversary.

References to its classic forebear are clearly visible on the special edition, with chrome-plated accents on the bumper, bonnet and mirrors, complementing the two-tone livery and the chrome-plated "Collezione" badge on the boot.

The Fiat 500 Collezione is available now priced from £13,870 on the road. After Milan and London, the car is moving on to Berlin, Paris and Madrid, where it will complete its European Launch Tour.

]]>Aston Martin adds AMR flagship to DB11 rangeGrand TourerNewsLuxuryMotorsportsSports CarSupercarsNews EditorFri, 11 May 2018 13:33:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/aston-martin-adds-amr-flagship-to-db11-range55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5afb748b88251b30fb59e708Launched at the opening of Aston Martin's new Nürburgring-based Performance
Centre, a new race-inspired AMR model has joined the DB11 line-up.

Launched at the opening of Aston Martin's new Nürburgring-based Performance Centre, a new race-inspired AMR model has joined the DB11 line-up.

Replacing the outgoing V12-engined model at the top of the DB11 range, the AMR boasts more power, increased performance, enhanced driving dynamics and a more characterful exhaust note, together with enhancements to both the exterior and interior.

AMR – inspired by Aston Martin Racing’s endurance programme – is designed to push the performance envelope of each model in the Aston Martin range. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2017, the performance derivative has already delivered the previous-generation Vantage AMR and AMR Pro, with the Rapide AMR on the way.

The DB11 AMR is powered by Aston Martin’s twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12, but now pumping out 630bhp - 30bhp more than the outgoing DB11 V12 and 127bhp more than the V8-engined DB11 - while torque is unchanged at 700Nm. A 0-62mph time of 3.7s shaves 0.2sec off the outgoing model's PB, while a top speed of 208mph makes it Aston Martin’s fastest series production model.

The DB11 AMR is distinguished by exposed carbon fibre and gloss black detailing. Externally all brightwork has been given a monochrome treatment: dark headlight surrounds and smoked tail lamps complemented by a dark front grille and tailpipes; gloss black roof, roof strake plus side sills and splitter contrasting with the exposed weave of the carbon fibre hood blades and side strakes. The dark theme continues inside, with monotone leather and Alcantara upholstery accented with a bold contrasting lime stripe down the centre of the seats.

As well as the standard colour and trim options, the DB11 AMR comes in three Designer Specifications, plus an exclusive AMR Signature Edition with a Stirling Green and lime livery. It features extensive carbon fibre detailing on the exterior, while the cabin gets Dark Knight leather and Lime detailing, plus Satin Dark Chrome switchgear and Satin Carbon Fibre trim. Strictly limited to 100 units worldwide, the AMR Signature Edition is priced at £201,995.

Aston Martin’s accessories team have also developed a range of options for customers wishing to add further race-inspired styling to their DB11. These include a carbon-fibre engine cover, exhaust tips and a deployable spoiler for the exterior, while a new carbon-fibre sports steering wheel and paddle shifts bring the AMR ethos into the cabin. Tailored luggage sets are also available to match the car’s specification.

The Aston Martin DB11 AMR is available from £174,995 with first customer deliveries set to begin in the next month or so.

MINI presents visionary living concept at Milan Design WeekNewsQuirkyDesignNews EditorTue, 17 Apr 2018 09:41:05 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/mini-presents-visionary-living-concept-at-milan-design-week55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5ad5bbf5f950b777a947a33cThis year’s Salone del Mobile in Milan sees MINI joining forces with
London-based architects Studiomama to present MINI LIVING – BUILT BY ALL, a
new installation portraying a living concept realised in a close
collaboration between residents and architects.

This year’s Salone del Mobile in Milan sees MINI joining forces with London-based architects Studiomama to present MINI LIVING – BUILT BY ALL, a new installation portraying a living concept realised in a close collaboration between residents and architects.

A surface area of just a few square metres is used to create very personal spaces, reflecting MINI’s core principle of the “creative use of space”. BUILT BY ALL is the third installation presented by MINI in Milan. “MINI LIVING provides creative solutions for collaborative urban living – on a small footprint but offering many possibilities and a high degree of flexibility,” explains Esther Bahne, Head of MINI Brand Strategy and Business Innovation. “Our first large hub, containing over 50 apartments and communal/public spaces on an area twice the size again is currently being constructed in Shanghai. As with BUILT BY ALL, the residents are co-creators of their space.”

This year’s MINI LIVING installation is located in a connecting room at the Zona Tortona complex. Visitors here – some of whom will be architects – can experience the full-size realisation of four different living space concepts designed in collaboration with Studiomama.

Covering a surface area of just 15-20 square metres, but on very different floor plans and in different forms, colours and materials, are four contrasting living units. The approach underpinning the design allows each unit to express the individual personalities of their residents at the same time as underscoring the concept’s variety and scope. The living units are embedded in a shared space incorporating functions such as a communal kitchen, fitness area and atrium.

The installation adopts existing structures – e.g. pillars and struts – and complements them with additional functionalities. The result is a standalone, living micro-neighbourhood in an old factory hall. The installation highlights that even the inside of an empty building can be used to enrich the future of urban architecture. It demonstrates how unused warehouses, abandoned shopping centres and offices can be transformed into potential living spaces.

“Today’s standardised housing market is limited in its ability to meet the requirements of the individual,” says Oke Hauser, Creative Lead MINI LIVING, explaining the approach behind the installation. “So MINI LIVING – BUILT BY ALL turns people into active creators and puts them at the heart of the design process. We believe that ultimately the quality of a living space is determined by how well the residents identify with their home.”

The installation will be on show during Milan Design Week at the Salone del Mobile at Via Tortona 32 in Milan, Italy from 17 – 22 April 2018.

]]>Vauxhall's Luton plant to produce brand new VivaroNewsIndustryNews EditorThu, 05 Apr 2018 08:18:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/vauxhalls-luton-plant-to-produce-brand-new-vivaro55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5ac67844352f53d8c8e7988cThe future of Vauxhall's Luton plant has been assured by parent company PSA
Group, following confirmation of an investment which will see the facility
produce a brand new version of the Vivaro van from 2019.

The future of Vauxhall's Luton plant has been assured by parent company PSA Group, following confirmation of an investment which will see the facility produce a brand new version of the Vivaro van from 2019.

PSA says it's aiming to strengthen its market position in Europe while accelerating growth in other regions. In 2017, it reported record LCV sales of 476,500 units, an increase of 15% on 2016. Adding in passenger car derivatives (Peugeot Traveller and Citroën SpaceTourer, for example), the Group sold a total of 658,000 units.

The investment in Luton is driven through a performance plan negotiated between the Unite Trade Union and the Luton plant (UK) which will see the EMP2 platform for LCV localised by mid-2019, as part of the convergence on PSA Group technology.

The performance plan is said to have been facilitated by both the 'responsible social dialogue with the Unite union guaranteeing production flexibility and the support of the UK Government and Luton Borough Council, despite Brexit uncertainties'.

In 2017, the plant produced 60,000 Opel/Vauxhall Vivaros. The investment aims at increasing production capacity to 100,000 vehicles per year based on PSA Group’s EMP2 platform.

“Performance is the trigger for sustainability and I would like to thank all stakeholders involved and underline the open mindset of our union partners, as well as that of the UK Government. This is a major milestone for the future of the Luton plant and a key enabler to serve our ambitions in the commercial vehicle market, guaranteeing customers the best offering in this segment” said Carlos Tavares, Chairman of the managing Board PSA Group

“This excellent news for Luton is also a clear demonstration that our PACE! Plan is being executed across all European countries. It is also a clear recognition of the skilled people who have customer satisfaction at the core of their priorities. As we have often stated, we have our future in our own hands and we need to unleash the full potential of the employees” said Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Opel/Vauxhall.

]]>Lexus reveals all-new UX ahead of Geneva debut4x4CrossoverFamily CarLuxuryNewsNews EditorThu, 01 Mar 2018 09:53:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/lexus-reveals-all-new-ux-ahead-of-geneva-debut55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a96fd339140b7c932379ec4Lexus has released the first official image of its new UX urban compact
crossover, ahead of its world debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show on 6
March.

Lexus has released the first official image of its new UX urban compact crossover, ahead of its world debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show on 6 March.

The UX’s bold styling bears a clear family resemblance to its larger SUV siblings, the NX and RX, combining heavily sculpted bodywork with a condensed look. It features muscular front wings and powerful haunches with a high beltline, but under the skin lies an all-new platform which endows the UX, says Lexus, with 'exceptional body rigidity and a low centre of gravity to deliver the agile handling of a hatchback'.

The cabin is focused on the driver’s cockpit, says Lexus, offering 'an inviting passenger space and a commanding view of the road', featuring high quality craftsmanship and the latest in-car technology.

The press conference for the UX - which will become the entry point to the Japanese luxury brand in a growing area of the market - will take place at 10am on 6 March on the Lexus stand in Hall 4 at Palexpo in Geneva.

It will be presented by the new Head of Lexus Europe, Pascal Ruch, and the UX Chief Engineer Chika Kako.

]]>Kia unveils third generation CeedFamily CarHatchbackNewsNews EditorMon, 19 Feb 2018 09:57:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/kia-unveils-third-generation-ceed55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a8b79f924a694d7073175f6The all-new Kia Ceed has been revealed ahead of its world debut at the 2018
Geneva International Motor Show.

The all-new Kia Ceed has been revealed ahead of its world debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show.

Now in its third generation, the C-segment Ceed – designed, developed, engineered and built in Europe – promises innovative new technologies, a mature and athletic new design, and a more engaging drive.

Since the first-generation Kia cee’d started production at its then new Slovakian manufacturing plant in December 2006, more than 1.28 million units have been built. A more conventional naming format sees cee’d become Ceed, consigning the seemingly random apostrophe to the history books while Kia suggests the new name is an acronym for a car for the Community of Europe, with European Design.

As with its predecessors, the new model has been designed, developed and engineered in Frankfurt by Kia’s European design, product development and R&D teams and will be manufactured at the production facility in Žilina, Slovakia, alongside the Sportage and Venga.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer for Kia Motors Europe, commented: “The Kia Ceed has been a lynchpin in the brand’s consistent growth across Europe for more than a decade. Building on these solid foundations, the all-new Ceed offers a truly contemporary and recognisable design, and advanced technologies to enhance comfort, convenience and safety. Its new engines and suspension will make it more enjoyable and engaging to drive, and will continue to offer the same high quality that customers expect from Kia. This will be one of the most innovative cars in its class.”

Engine choices for the Ceed include a 140ps 1.4-litre T-GDi petrol engine as well as a new ‘U3’ 1.6-litre diesel and every model is backed up by KIa’s seven-year, 100,000 mile warranty.

A comprehensive range of advanced driver assistance systems will be available, says Kia, and the Ceed will become the Korean brand’s first ever car to offer ‘level two autonomy’ with Lane Following Assist technology.

The all-new Ceed will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, where a second body style will also be unveiled for the first time.

The five-door hatchback will enter production in May and sales will kick off in Q2 of 2018 in left-hand-drive markets across Europe, but an on-sale date and pricing for the UK market has yet to be announced.

“The Nissan 370Zki continues our recent tradition of bringing imaginative winter vehicle concepts to the Chicago Auto Show. With the Nissan Z’s long heritage of motorsports competition, the 370Zki seemed like a natural combination,” said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “Prior to its debut here in Chicago, we put the 370Zki through its paces on the slopes in Wyoming where its performance heritage really came through.”

Transforming the standard 370Z Roadster into the snow track-carving 370Zki presented a few challenges. Making room for the rear tracks meant removing the entire drivetrain. A custom lift kit was designed and engineered to lift the car three inches from its normal ride height. Next came the fabrication of custom mountings for the rear suspension springs and three-inch custom spacers to mount the snow tracks to the wheel hubs. The factory brakes were retained but the brake lines had to be rerouted and the exhaust system was modified to fit beneath the vehicle. The rear wheel wells were also modified to allow clearance for the four-foot-long snow tracks.

In front, the suspension was modified to accommodate the new ride height, and adaptors were made to allow the appropriate travel and rotation for the front skis – which, like the snow tracks, were also supplied by American Track Truck Inc. – and mounted with spacers to the standard wheel hubs. The engine and transmission also had to be custom-mounted and a front skid plate fabricated to prevent damage during snow excursions.

By comparison, the cosmetic part of the conversion was relatively straightforward, with a custom body wrap created and applied by Icon Image Graphics and the headlights tinted yellow to resemble ski goggles.

The Nissan 370Zki is on public display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, which runs from 10-19.February.

]]>Hyundai teases all-new Santa Fe SUV4x4NewsSUVNews EditorFri, 26 Jan 2018 10:55:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/hyundai-teases-all-new-santa-fe-suv55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a6ccb679140b70ed926bff9The first teaser image of the fourth generation Hyundai Santa Fe has been
released ahead of its official debut next month.

The first teaser image of the fourth generation Hyundai Santa Fe has been released ahead of its official debut next month.

Hyundai has revealed initial details of the new generation Santa Fe, which will make its world premiere in February before appearing at the Geneva Motor Show in early March. The fourth generation model continues a legacy which stretches back to 2001 when the very first Santa Fe was launched.

The all-new SUV Santa Fe is to be equipped with Hyundai’s latest active safety features under the Smart Sense technology umbrella. Parents will never forget their kids in the car again, thanks to an industry-first Rear Occupant Alert which monitors the rear seats to detect passengers and alerts the driver when leaving the car.

The Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning is now enhanced with the addition of an automated braking function. To avoid potential collisions when reversing out of narrow areas with limited visibility, the system warns the driver and applies the brakes automatically.

The teaser image itself reveals a shoulder line and slightly boxy wheelarches which follow the styling of its smaller SUV sibling, the Tucson, but we'll get a closer look at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1st.

]]>Land Rover celebrates 70 years with limited edition Defender V84x4Classic carNewsQuirkyNews EditorWed, 17 Jan 2018 11:09:00 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/land-rover-celebrates-70-years-with-limited-edition-defender-v855d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a5fd7caec212d98c9f8ad07A limited run of up to 150 re-engineered V8-powered versions of the Land
Rover Defender has been announced, celebrating the marque’s 70th
anniversary.

A limited run of up to 150 re-engineered V8-powered versions of the Land Rover Defender has been announced, celebrating the marque’s 70th anniversary.

The Defender Works V8 pays tributeto the early high-powered engines in both the Series III Stage 1 V8 from 1979 and subsequent Defenders including the 50th Anniversary Edition, which are currently much sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.

The Works V8 is the most powerful and fastest Defender that Land Rover has ever created. Its 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V8 powertrain produces 405PS and 515 Nm of torque (compared to the standard Defender's 122PS and 360 Nm), enabling it to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.6sec on its way to a top speed of 106mph.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: “The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull. We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.”

The entire UK allocation of 24 of SEAT’s fastest ever road car – the Leon Cupra R – have been snapped up just a matter of weeks after going on sale.

Forming part of a total production run of 799 examples, combining a raft of technical upgrades with enhanced styling and a premium finish, the 24 UK-specification Leon Cupra R cars, all 310PS six-speed manual gearbox versions, cost £34,995 on-the-road when order books were opened on November 13, 2017.

Like their siblings, they feature modified camber angles on the front axle, four piston Brembro brake callipers and a retuned sports exhaust system, plus, a rear spoiler providing 20kg more downforce.

In grey or black, the Leon Cupra flagship is distinguished by carbon fibre details for the rear spoiler, lower lip spoiler, side skirts and rear diffuser. The extended wheel arches and the front also get a more aggressive design around the air intakes, while copper colouring is featured on the door mirrors, Cupra tailgate lettering, and copper and black 19-inch Cupra R alloy wheels.

The cabin also sees the copper hue carried through to the dashboard, centre console, door panel stitching and Cupra steering wheel logo. There’s also Alcantara trim on the gearstick, steering wheel and front bucket seats with copper stitching.

Commenting on the limited edition model’s super-swift sell-out performance, Richard Harrison, Director, SEAT UK, said, “As soon as we saw the Leon Cupra R for the first time, we knew it would appeal strongly to British performance car enthusiasts, but, we’ve simply been blown away by the amount of interest shown its generated. I’m delighted, and not the least bit surprised, that the UK-bound cars all found homes in such a short space of time. I’m sure their lucky owners will enjoy many years of great driving in this exclusive series.”

First UK deliveries of the SEAT Leon Cupra R begin this month.

]]>Infiniti previews new Q Inspiration Concept set for Detroit debutGrand TourerHatchbackFamily CarNewsMotorshowNews EditorThu, 04 Jan 2018 10:48:37 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/infiniti-previews-new-q-inspiration-concept-set-for-detroit-debut55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a4e04a2e4966b5d9ecf0c9dInfiniti has released an image of its new Q Inspiration Concept ahead of
its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Infiniti has released an image of its new Q Inspiration Concept ahead of its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The exterior of Q Inspiration features clean lines and an elongated silhouette. It is the first example of Infiniti's new form language for an era of advanced powertrains and presents the brand's vision for its future vehicles in the segment.

Karim Habib, Infiniti Executive Design Director said “We aim to take traditional saloon architecture to its next stage of evolution. Experimenting with new proportions in an established segment with the arrival of smarter, compact powertrains, the Q Inspiration features a shorter hood and elongated body, with all the benefits to interior wellbeing, comfort and space that this layout entails.”

The Infiniti Q Inspiration Concept will be officially revealed at the Detroit Auto Show on 15 January, 2018.

]]>First pre-production BMW X7s roll off the line to begin testing4x4NewsSUVNews EditorTue, 02 Jan 2018 17:17:22 +0000https://www.newcarnet.co.uk/news-articles/first-pre-production-bmw-x7-rolls-off-the-line55d74953e4b054689caf6e9c:55d74c66e4b01f81cf372825:5a4bb80c9140b7189833d10bBMW has confirmed that the very first pre-production examples of its new X7
large SUV have begun to roll off the assembly line at the Group's
Spartanburg plant in the USA.

BMW has confirmed that the very first pre-production examples of its new X7 large SUV have begun to roll off the assembly line at the Group's Spartanburg plant in the USA.

This begins a countdown for the final twelve months – during which the pre-production vehicles will undergo various tests including some under extreme conditions – leading up to the official unveiling of the seven-seater production car at the end of 2018.

Knudt Flor, head of the BMW Group Spartanburg plant: “We are proud to produce the BMW X7 here in Spartanburg, the home of our X models. This is a very special vehicle and our employees are looking forward to yet a further member of the X family. Together with the BMW X7, a total of five BMW X models will be exported from Spartanburg to all four corners of the globe.”

The pre-production models will be handed over to development department specialists, who require them for homologation, registration as well as for diverse testing purposes such as endurance tests and test drives under extreme conditions in the desert regions of Death Valley or on the ice and snow covered slopes of Scandinavia.

The pre-production model is fitted with its camouflage wrap while still at the plant. The conspicuous striped patterns are designed to help conceal the new X7's final look as far as possible.